The Importance of a
Post-Show Review

Believe it or not, pulling off a successful live production is only half the work. Many people get so focused on the event itself that they overlook the importance of a post-show event recap. These recaps are important not only for maintaining a foolproof process at future events, but enhancing the performance and efficiency of your staff so your client can have even more confidence in your team at the next event. Furthermore, as you continue to work together, you can learn how both parties can improve when it comes to communication and setting expectations. This transparency will prevent both you and your client from repeating mistakes or feeling detached from the event goals.

What is a Post-Show Recap?

A post-show recap is a chance to gather feedback from everyone involved. At CTS, we utilize feedback forms and debrief meetings for all of our clients and staff. It’s an opportunity for our team to acknowledge what went well and where we could make improvements. For example, we discuss technical errors, communication issues, client interactions, and how to make things run more smoothly in the future.

Why Are Post-Show Recaps Essential?

Recapping immediately after your event is a crucial step – arguably as important as the prep work – and especially so in repeatable events. However, with demanding schedules, ongoing work responsibilities, and pressure to proceed to the next production, it can be tempting to simply wrap up an event and move on. But it’s critical to stop, recap, and convene with the client, as the discussion may illuminate issues you weren’t aware of beforehand, as well as provide you with better insight into your team’s strengths and weaknesses. In addition, a post-show recap will demonstrate to the client that you care enough to serve them better in the future.

Everyone Has a Different Perspective

On any given event, there are a myriad of skill levels and technical positions, and everyone has their own take on what is happening. From audio to video to lighting, each department has distinct methods of preparation, as well as a unique perspective on what’s running smoothly and what may have gone awry. The camera crew may have executed what they thought was a flawless event, while the lighting team encountered a few snags. We all have different eyes on what’s happening and how we can do better – that’s why input from each team member is so valuable after the event.

Progress > Perfection

We’d all love to pull off a flawless event, but the fact of the matter is that perfection isn’t real. Chasing perfection only leads to disappointment, while continuously striving to be better keeps everyone sharp and leads to incredible results. Issues on event day will inevitably happen. From equipment failures to changes in the event schedule, not one live production has ever gone on without some alteration. While having a solid plan allows you to be prepared for unexpected changes, it’s also important to stay positive when challenges do arise and to view them as learning opportunities for the future.

Goal Setting is Essential

The insights gained from post-show recaps can help you set clear goals for future events, and these will always make your events better. Whether your goal is improving sound quality, enhancing lighting design, or encouraging more communication among teams, goal setting helps with motivation, focus, and staying accountable.

Post-Show Recaps: Best Practices

 1. Be prompt. Conduct the recap within a week of the event if possible. This will allow you enough time to reset from the event while also ensuring your team can accurately recall how the event went.

 2. Gather multiple perspectives. Talk with everyone involved, or if that’s not possible, at least one person from every department.

 3. Be open and honest. Sometimes the truth isn’t pretty. Encourage candid feedback and create a safe space for discussion.

 4. Acknowledge wins. It’s important to not blow past what went well. Even if it’s just giving a shoutout to a teammate who went above and beyond, showing appreciation for your team’s efforts goes a long in way in establishing a healthy culture and can help reinforce positive behavior and motivate people to perform well. 

 5. Document everything. Keep records of feedback and record action items for future events.

 6. Follow up. Reconnect with everyone involved to confirm that their input has been acted upon.

Elevate Your Live Production

Post-show recaps are not just a routine task, they’re an essential part of event production. At CTS, we prepare relentlessly before an event and are just as committed to the debriefing process. Partner with us to bring your vision to life at all stages of your event.